Purwokerto, C Java (ANTARA) - Field epidemiologist at Jenderal Soedirman University Purwokerto, Dr Yudhi Wibowo, supports the ban on homecoming activities to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr 2021, calling it a strategic policy to thwart an increase in COVID-19 cases.
"The policy of prohibiting homecoming activities is very strategic to reduce population mobility. The aim is very good, solely to prevent a spike in cases and deaths due to COVID-19," he remarked here on Friday.
Wibowo reminded that despite a ban on homecoming activities, Ramadan worship can still be performed properly.
"Eid Al-Fitr can still be celebrated with virtual meetings, especially for today, there are many technologies that make it easier for people to stay in touch with each other virtually," he remarked.
Hence, the momentum of Eid Al-Fitr can still be celebrated by meeting virtually to apologize to one another.
"This is how we all adapt to the pandemic. By staying in touch virtually, I do not think it will diminish the beauty of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr," the epidemiologist affirmed.
To this end, Wibowo urged the community, especially those working and living in other areas, to not return to their hometowns to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"People in other areas should not go back to their hometowns first. Obey government regulations regarding the prohibition on homecoming," he stated.
Wibowo also reminded the public to continue to apply health protocols during various daily activities.
"Since the pandemic has not ended, people still have to apply health protocols in a disciplined manner and not to let it loose," he pointed out.
Meanwhile, Wibowo also emphasized that mask-wearing operations and the enforcement of health protocols had to be conducted intensively to increase public awareness.
"Justisi operations, mask-wearing operations, and enforcement of health protocols should be conducted intensively, so that people remain disciplined in applying health protocols," he stated.
Hence, the epidemiologist lauded the efforts of various agencies, ranging from the army and police to the civil service police unit, which continue to conduct the operations.
"The operations that have been conducted should be lauded," he remarked.
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